Adding laminate flooring to your home is a great way to give it a new look and feel. This type of floor is durable, resistant to scratches and stains, and can last for years. You can also choose from a variety of finishes and styles, including prefinished and unfinished. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing laminate:
Prefinished vs unfinished
Are you thinking about buying a new floor, and you’re wondering if you should buy prefinished or unfinished? Both types offer advantages and disadvantages. However, there are a few key differences that you should know.
First, prefinished wood flooring is usually much more expensive than its unfinished counterpart. This is due to the fact that the prefinished version has already been through a finishing process at the manufacturer’s factory.
On the other hand, you can expect to pay less for unfinished hardwood, thanks to the fact that there is no need to sand or finish it. Unfinished floors also come with a protective cover, which prevents foreign particles from getting inside.
Grain pattern
A grain pattern of laminate flooring is used to give the floor a wood-grain look. It’s created using photographic images of real wood. This method makes it possible to have a variety of wood grain patterns, giving your room a non-repetitive appearance.
Although many laminate floors have the same grain pattern, the best laminates come with a wide range of variations. The latest manufacturing techniques allow for unique wood-look finishes.
One advantage of laminate is that the floor is water-resistant. If you choose to lay your floors on top of a vinyl or linoleum base, make sure it is treated with a vapor barrier. Also, keep in mind that if you spill something on your laminate, clean it up immediately.
Low-gloss finish
There are several types of low-gloss finishes available. The different levels of gloss can affect how your floors look and feel. You can choose a finish that best suits your lifestyle and design style.
One of the most popular finishes for laminate flooring is the satin or matte finish. These are easier to maintain than higher gloss options.
For instance, you can easily remove marks from the surface using a dry mop or feather duster. However, you may need to use a floor sealer to tone down the appearance. Also, a high-gloss finish can be slippery.
Another option is the woodgrain texture. This finish has a matte-gloss surface, which hides dirt better than a solid color.
Hand-scraped patina
Hand-scraped laminate floors are a great way to add a touch of nature to your home. They are designed to give the look and feel of real hardwood. Though they are very durable, you should take steps to keep your laminate looking new.
This type of floor is a great choice if you are looking to save money. It is easy to maintain and offers a number of features. You can clean it daily with a mop and a light bristle brush, but you should not use harsh chemicals.
The most important feature of hand-scraped laminate flooring is its durability. It is made with multiple layers, and is designed to withstand heavy traffic. Even in the event of a spill, the floor should be cleaned up immediately. Use a dry cloth to wipe up any excess moisture and avoid getting the laminate too wet.
Resistant to stains and smudges
Laminate flooring is known for its durability and stain resistance. It is a perfect choice for homes with busy schedules and young families. However, it does require regular maintenance.
The best way to keep your laminate floors looking their best is by taking good care of them. Keeping them clean and free from unsightly marks is the key. You can do this by following a few simple steps.
For starters, you should always wipe up spills as soon as possible. Wiping up a spill before it has time to set can prevent dirt from being deposited onto the floor.
You should also use a protective mat under heavy furniture. Heavy furniture can damage your laminate floors.
Resistant to UV fading
If you want to get a floor that can withstand the UV rays of the sun without fading, there are plenty of options. Laminate flooring are not as easy to discolor as hardwood, but they’re resistant to scratches, moisture, and wear.
If you’re looking for a fade-resistant laminate flooring, you’ll want to look for an aluminum oxide coating on the surface. This will protect your floors from moderate sunlight. However, this will not prevent the color from fading.
You may also want to consider getting a window film to block the UV rays of the sun. This can increase the glass’s UV blocking capabilities by about 50 percent.
